If your business works with local customers, showing up in Google’s local listings is one of the most valuable ways to attract new enquiries. When someone searches for a service near them, they’re often shown a group of local businesses at the top of the results, complete with reviews, photos and directions. This is called the Google Map Pack.
Getting your business to appear there doesn’t require a big marketing budget, but it does require a solid setup. In this article, we’ll walk you through the key things you can do to get the most out of your Google Business Profile.
1. Use Your Real Business Name
Your business name should be entered exactly as it appears in the real world. Don’t try to add extra keywords or locations into the name. Google may penalise or even suspend listings that appear misleading. If your business already includes the location in the name, that’s fine. If not, leave it out. You’ll have other opportunities to signal location and services.
2. Choose the Right Category
One of the most important settings in your profile is the business category. This helps Google decide which searches your listing should appear in. Try searching for your main service in your area and see which categories are being used by top listings. Use the most specific one that applies to your work.
For example, if you run a landscaping business, choose “landscaper” rather than something broad like “contractor.”
3. Add Clear, Original Photos
Authentic images help people get a sense of your business. They also give Google more confidence that your business is real and active.
Include a mix of the following:
- Outside photos showing your signage or street presence
- Inside photos, if customers visit your premises
- Team photos or shots of staff on the job
- Examples of your work or products
Avoid stock images. It’s better to use real, everyday photos, even if they’re from a phone, as long as they’re well lit and in focus.
4. Complete Every Section of Your Profile
Take the time to fill in all the fields in your Google Business dashboard. That includes your business description, services, opening hours, contact details, website, FAQs, service area and delivery radius if relevant.
The more complete your profile, the more helpful it is to customers. It also signals to Google that your business is active and trustworthy.
5. Link to the Right Page on Your Website
If your business only has one location, your Google Business listing should link to your homepage. But if you have multiple locations, each listing should point to its own location page on your site. This helps Google connect the dots and match each profile to the correct part of your website.
6. Ask for Reviews and Reply to Them
Reviews build trust with potential customers. They’re also one of the factors Google looks at when deciding which businesses to show. Ask happy clients to leave a review using your Google review link.
Make a habit of replying to reviews, even if it’s just a short thank you. If someone leaves negative feedback, stay professional and show that you’re open to resolving the issue.
7. Post Updates Regularly
You can publish short posts on your profile to share what’s new. These might include recent projects, new services, seasonal promotions or anything else worth sharing. These posts keep your listing fresh and give people another reason to click through.
Here are the official guidelines from Google to set up your Google Business Listing.
Setting up and maintaining a Google Business Profile takes time, especially if you want it done properly. At Halo Digital, we help businesses make the most of their local listings through SEO services in Perth, so they can be found more easily by nearby customers. Get in touch with us to learn more about how we support businesses through better local search results.
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